Technology
is allowing automakers to produce vehicles that are fuel efficient while at the
same time providing impressive performance. In past years, performance and fuel
economy weren't generally found in the same vehicles. One of the latest
vehicles to embrace hybrid technology to deliver improved fuel economy and
performance is the Buick LaCrosse with eAssist, which
we have previously covered on DailyTech.

The 2012
LaCrosse with eAssist uses a new generation BAS hybrid system that was
first covered in November of last year. Buick has now confirmed the price on
the LaCrosse with eAssist for the 2012 model year with eAssist. The vehicle
will start at $29,960 before a destination charge of $860. The eAssist tech
allows the car to deliver 25% better highway fuel economy than the current
LaCrosse model.

For
comparison, the base 2011 LaCrosse without eAssist started at $27,130.

“LaCrosse with eAssist is the smart choice for those who want great fuel
economy without sacrificing the driving dynamics and passenger comfort that
have made Buick the fastest-growing major automotive brand in the United
States,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing.

The eAssist tech allows the LaCrosse with eAssist to achieve 37 mpg on the
highway, which is better than the Lexus
HS 250h Hybrid and the Lincoln
MKZ Hybrid. Its city fuel economy of 25 mpg, however, falls well below that
of those two competitors. The 2012 LaCrosse vehicle uses a new lithium-ion
battery system and an electric motor-generator that allows for regenerative
braking. The light electrification system inside the LaCrosse will also be
offered on the 2012
Buick Regal later in the year.

The eAssist tech is paired with an 180hp 2.4-liter inline-4 engine that uses direct
injection. An AWD version of the vehicle will also be offered, but the power
numbers are not rated at this time.

“LaCrosse with eAssist is the most advanced LaCrosse to date,” DiSalle said.
“The winning combination of advanced technology, no-compromise driving
performance and luxurious style and passenger comfort stand to make LaCrosse
with eAssist a must-have sedan.”

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